Portugal, Spain, and France are not only world-renowned wine producers—they are also home to breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and rich culinary heritage. For wine lovers seeking an immersive travel experience, this guide offers a curated journey through the must-see wine destinations in Southern Europe. Explore iconic vineyards, indulge in regional flavors, and uncover the cultural gems that make each country unique.

What to See in Portugal, Spain, and France for Wine Lovers: A Scenic Wine-Fueled Tour of Southern Europe

Portugal 

Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is Portugal’s most iconic wine region, known for its terraced vineyards carved into steep hillsides along the Douro River.

• What to see: Panoramic vineyard views, traditional wine estates (Quintas), scenic river cruises.

• Don’t miss: A sunset tasting at Quinta do Seixo, a river cruise from Pinhão, and a gourmet lunch at DOC Restaurant overlooking the valley.

This UNESCO-listed region is the birthplace of Port wine and offers one of Europe’s most scenic wine experiences.

Porto & Vila Nova de Gaia

Located where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean, Porto is a vibrant city with centuries of winemaking heritage.

• What to see: The colorful Ribeira district, Dom Luís I Bridge, and the iconic Port wine cellars in Gaia.

• Top wineries to visit: Taylor’s, Cálem, Sandeman — all offering guided tours and tastings of vintage and tawny Ports.

The fusion of historic charm and wine culture makes Porto a must for any wine enthusiast.

Alentejo

Alentejo offers a different pace, with expansive plains, cork oak forests, and quiet villages.

• What to see: The whitewashed town of Évora, rolling vineyards, and olive groves.

• Wine experiences: Visit renowned estates like Herdade do Esporão or Adega da Cartuxa for full-bodied reds and locally sourced food pairings.

This region is perfect for travelers seeking authentic rural charm and less crowded tasting experiences.

Spain 

La Rioja

La Rioja is Spain’s flagship wine region, blending tradition with innovation.

• What to see: Medieval wine towns like Haro and Laguardia, and stunning winery architecture from firms like Ysios and Marqués de Riscal.

• Experience: Tour historic bodegas, taste aged Tempranillos, and pair wines with regional tapas in the heart of Rioja Alta.

La Rioja is a dream for red wine lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

San Sebastián & Basque Country

Known for its culinary excellence, the Basque Country also boasts crisp coastal wines and cider traditions.

• What to see: San Sebastián’s beaches and pintxos bars, the fishing town of Getaria, and lush vineyards inland.

• Wine tip: Sample the local Txakoli wine with seafood, or visit a sidrería to experience Basque cider culture.

This region seamlessly combines ocean views, gastronomy, and unique wine expressions.

Andalusia (Sherry Region)

Southern Spain brings a distinct wine style to the table: Sherry.

• What to see: Jerez de la Frontera’s flamenco heritage, historic bodegas, and palm-lined plazas.

• Must-try: A tour of the Tio Pepe bodega and a dry Fino paired with Iberian jamón for an authentic Andalusian experience.

Andalusia offers sunshine, tradition, and complex fortified wines that have stood the test of time.

France 

Bordeaux & Saint-Émilion

Bordeaux is one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world, home to some of the finest red blends.

• What to see: Elegant châteaux in Médoc, the cobblestone streets of Saint-Émilion, and underground cellars.

• Don’t miss: A hands-on wine blending workshop, and a guided tour of Saint-Émilion’s UNESCO-listed town center.

This region is perfect for those seeking both sophistication and deep-rooted wine heritage.

Champagne Region

North of Paris, Champagne is synonymous with celebration and finesse.

• What to see: Reims Cathedral, Épernay’s Avenue de Champagne, and miles of chalk cellars beneath the surface.

• Top producers: Visit Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and explore smaller grower-producers for a more personal tasting.

Champagne is not just a drink—it’s a region full of sparkling history.

Provence

Famous for its lavender fields and pastel sunsets, Provence also produces some of France’s most popular rosé wines.

• What to see: The scenic coastline near Cassis, charming towns like Aix-en-Provence, and hillside vineyards.

• Wine tip: Enjoy a glass of pale pink Provence rosé as the sun sets over the Mediterranean, ideally paired with seafood or goat cheese.

Provence is ideal for summer travelers looking to combine sun, sea, and wine.

This guide to what to see in Portugal, Spain, and France for wine lovers is your passport to a journey filled with rich flavors, historical wonders, and unforgettable landscapes. Whether you're chasing bold reds, elegant whites, or sparkling bubbles, Southern Europe offers the perfect pairing of wine and adventure.